In search of THE axe…

Square_peg said:
"....mainly to split...."

That is why you need something larger than a boys axe. You should really be looking at a 3.5 pound axe. That's the minimum for splitting and will still do the bucking and limbing that you also do.



This is where most people are at and this is why the 3.5 pound axe has become the standard. For bucking a 3-4 pound axe is best. For splitting a 3.5 pound or larger axe is necessary. For limbing a 2.25 to 3.5 pound is best, but 3.5 pounds is pushing the limit. A 32" handle will be fine for all 3 of your tasks. A 36" handle is too long for limbing. A 28" handle is too short for splitting (lacks power).
Click to expand...
I think SquarePeg nailed it! For a an axe that’s “capable” at all tasks, not overly expensive, and has some style. A 3.5lb Kelly Jersey on a 32” haft would be my one does it all axe.
 
From reading through all the different posts from members here, I think there is a trend that a lot of people evolve to. Which is starting out looking at brand new axes which may be high quality and are easily available, but then turning to seeking out vintage axes which are no longer produced. Finding a vintage head in good condition for a reasonable price is still relatively easy, and hanging it yourself, and using it, will give you more satisfaction than any new axe you can buy. But don’t worry about getting the perfect axe the first time, if your here and asking questions, you will likely end up with many more in the future. Good luck with your search!
 
junkenstien said:
You should find out who made the Swiss surplus axes
Click to expand...

Yeah… Don't get me wrong, I am sure they are quite decent tools made from quality steel, and they seem to be somewhat popular within the bushcraft community, but according to my memories of the two years spent in the army 20 years ago, they have nothing special, plus a very thick handle.

I may be spoiled as a Swiss, but for me they are fairly common stuff, and I am definitely looking for something with a lot more appeal and soul to it.
 
I tend toward vintage American axes myself, but I do have a thing for some European axes. Particularly when looking for newly made axes. Gransfors Bruk and Hults Bruk are two brands I look at when I need to quickly acquire a new, well made tool. One place I have run across with a variety of what appear to be very nice, handmade, special tools (and I think these may be heirloom quality if one is to believe their website) would be a Northlander Felling Axe from Northmen Guild. I have no experience with any of their products, but admit I kinda want a few things they make. Certainly worth a look if you're looking for something really "special".
 
binoclard said:
I am definitely looking for something with a lot more appeal and soul to it.
Click to expand...
Have you considered embossed hardware store axes? Lincoln Axe, Red Warrior, Plumb Champion Axe and many, many more to choose from. Those 100-120 years old item have a looooooooooooooooooot of soul and when it comes to quality most of them beat Council Tool products.
 
Of course you can split with an axe smaller than the standard 3.5 lbs but it depends what you are splitting :).

As for at least some of the people you mentioned...I can assure you they were using full-size (~1.5 kg) heads.
 
In "One Man's Wilderness" the author only uses a cruiser for felling and splitting. Moonw, Mann was an axe company that existed for many years and woodslashers were unbranded kelly's from the 60's, 70's, and 80's. The redhead that's standing is an example of one of mine.
DSC-0396.jpg
 
Moonw said:
Of course you can split with an axe smaller than the standard 3.5 lbs but it depends what you are splitting :).

As for at least some of the people you mentioned...I can assure you they were using full-size (~1.5 kg) heads.
Click to expand...
I am familiar with Steven Edholm (Skillcut) and he, indeed, splits with Boy's Axe. His videos are all about developing basic axe techniques and muscle memory.
 
Last edited:
For your everyday working axe my first choice would be a Jersey or a Connecticut head pattern, second choice a Kentucky, and third choice a Michigan or Dayton. As has been said, you would be best served by a quality vintage head rather than a new axe. I would hang it on a 32", straight profile, American hickory haft.
You still will need (and want) more than one axe.
 
binoclard said:
Damn… I was really hoping not to fall into the "awesome vintages" rabbit hole… :D
Click to expand...

Then grab a Velvi-cut and be done with it. They're a fine axe. From what I've seen they are the last mass-produced axe that still has good steel and convex cheeks. Those are the 2 traits you're for. Plus they come on nice handles. There's no other new axe that compares.
 
A17 said:
In "One Man's Wilderness" the author only uses a cruiser for felling and splitting. Moonw, Mann was an axe company that existed for many years and woodslashers were unbranded kelly's from the 60's, 70's, and 80's. The redhead that's standing is an example of one of mine.
DSC-0396.jpg
Click to expand...

Sorry. I thought I quoted your post referring the maker of the surplus Swiss hatchets?!

I am familiar with Mann.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top